How Can I Prevent Nail Problems?

Most nail problems can be prevented by trimming your nails properly and wearing the right shoes. If you are a diabetic, have artificial joint implant, or vascular disease, you should always have your physician perform routine foot checks and trim your nails.

Proper Care

Avoid going barefoot in public showers or locker rooms.

• Proper hygiene and regular inspection of the feet and toes are the first lines of defence against fungal nails.

• Clean and dry feet resist disease.
• Washing your feet with soap and water, remembering to dry thoroughly, is the best way to prevent an infection.

• Shower shoes should be worn when possible in public areas.
• Shoes, socks, or hosiery should be changed more than once daily.
• Avoid wearing excessively tight hosiery which promote moisture or ingrown nails.
• Socks made of synthetic fiber tend to “wick” away moisture faster than cotton or wool socks.
• Disinfect instruments used to cut nails.
• Disinfect home pedicure tools.

Proper Trimming

Trim your toenails straight across without cutting down into the corners.  Most ingrown toenail infections are caused by individuals performing “bathroom surgery”. Many individuals when self treating tear the nail; leaving a spike of nail under the skin.

Trimming your nail straight across and avoid cutting them too short can prevent development of ingrown toenails.

Proper Shoes

To prevent ingrown nails look for shoes with the following features:

• Ample room to allow your toes to wiggle.
• Natural material such as leather.
• Supportive.
• Shoes with laces allow more room for the toes than slip-on shoes.